Anita Among: Navigating Uganda’s Political Landscape

Anita Annet Among has emerged as a pivotal figure in Ugandan politics, currently serving as the Speaker of the 11th Parliament of Uganda since March 25, 2022 [1]. Her journey, marked by a transition from the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) to the National Resistance Movement (NRM), reflects a strategic ascent within Uganda’s political sphere.

Early Life and Education

Born on November 23, 1973, in Bukedea County, Kumi District (now Bukedea District), Uganda [1], Among’s educational background includes a Bachelor of Business Administration and a Master of Business Administration from Makerere University, alongside a Bachelor of Laws from Kampala International University [1]. This academic foundation has underpinned her multifaceted career as an accountant, lawyer, and politician.

Political Career

Among initially gained prominence within the FDC, eventually becoming the party’s deputy treasurer. Her subsequent shift to the NRM proved transformative, leading to her election as Deputy Speaker of the 10th Parliament. She is the second female deputy speaker in Uganda’s parliamentary history, following Rebecca Alitwala Kadaga [1]. She continues to serve as the elected Member of Parliament for the Bukedea District Women Constituency, a position she held during the 10th Parliament (2016–2021) [1].

Speakership and Legislative Achievements

As Speaker of the 11th Parliament, Among has overseen the passage of significant legislation, including the Anti-Homosexuality Bill, the Emblems Bill, and the Public Order Management Amendment Bill [1]. Her leadership style is characterized by a focus on consensus-building and legislative efficiency.

Influence and Party Support

Anita Among has become a key figure in rallying support for President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni and the NRM. Her efforts have reportedly led to several opposition MPs defecting to the NRM, including Hajji Yusuf Nsibambi, Abdu Katuntu, Gilbert Akole, and Ojara Mapenduzi [1]. As of July 2025, she is aspiring to become the ruling party’s third-ranking member, demonstrating considerable influence over MPs [2].

Other Ventures

Beyond her parliamentary duties, Among is the proprietor of Bukedea Comprehensive Academy, a co-educational boarding school founded in 2018, which also offers vocational training [1]. She also owns Bukedea Teaching Hospital and Bukedea Comprehensive Sports Park, commissioned by President Museveni in 2024 [1].

International Scrutiny

Among’s tenure has not been without controversy. She is named in a torture complaint against the Ugandan government submitted to the International Criminal Court [1], and has faced international criticism regarding the Anti-Homosexuality Bill.

Looking Ahead

As Uganda approaches the January 2026 elections [3], with President Museveni, age 80, expected to seek a seventh term, Anita Among’s position as Speaker and her influence within the NRM will likely remain central to the country’s political dynamics. Her experience and credentials position her as a potential leader in the upcoming parliamentary session.